I reclaim my health by taking care of myself today.

Now that I am adult, I am responsible for my own health. In order to reclaim it, I sometimes need to go back and parent myself into a healthier lifestyle. There are many things I can do, even today, to help myself along.

First of all, I recognize that what I put into my body affects my energy level, stamina, and productivity, not to mention my ability to stay healthy.

I choose to give my body foods that provide fuel and nutrients rather than empty calories that simply pack on pounds that I don’t need.

I also make exercise a priority. I have let go of idea that I have to be either a master athlete or a couch potato. It’s perfectly acceptable for me to be somewhere in between.

While gym memberships and structured exercise programs can be valuable tools, I can be healthy without them by making a few minor changes to my lifestyle. Walking or biking to work, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and engaging in outdoor play with my children are all excellent forms of exercise. Any movement is good for my body.

Lastly, I make sure to respect my body’s need for rest. I have a set time when my day is done. The vast majority of the time, whatever is unfinished can be picked up the following morning.

I have let go of the idea that I need to pack as much into each day as possible. Instead, I keep an eye on the big picture because I know that pacing myself and getting the rest I need will enable me to reach my peak productivity level.